Abdominal X-Ray Explained
Read More About This Imaging Technique
An abdominal X-ray pertains to the abdomen, spleen, liver, large and small bowel, and the diaphragm, the muscular tissue that separates the chest area and abdominal regions of the body. Frequently, more than one X-ray will be performed from various angles. If the exam is being performed to search for specific disorders of the liver or bladder, it is sometimes referred to as a KUB (kidneys, ureters, and bladder.)
X-rays are a type of radiation, like sound or radio waves, that are centered onto a beam similar to a flashlight’s beam of light. X-rays are able to pass through the majority of physical objects, including the human body. Whenever X-rays strike a part of photographic film, they create an image.
Dense organs like bones absorb (block) a lot of the X-rays and appear white on an X-ray picture. Less dense organs, like muscles and certain other structures absorb fewer of the X-rays (a lot more of the X-rays go on through) and appear like shades of gray on a scan. X-rays that go only through air, like the lungs and stomach (when empty), appear extremely dark.
Reliability of an Abdominal X-Ray
An abdominal X-ray scan may be among the first procedures done to determine a cause of abdominal discomfort or pain, puffiness, vomiting, or nausea. Occasionally, your X-ray scan may provide different results than if you were screened at a different hospital, and earlier scan results are sometimes inaccessible for use in comparison with new X-ray findings.
Specific results viewed on an abdominal X-ray could mean additional tests are required to detect the cause of the medical problem. These tests can include endoscopy, CAT, a ultrasound (CAT) scan, a barium enema procedure, or intravenous pyelography (IVP). For further information about these specific procedures, please visit your doctor.
An abdominal X-ray cannot detect certain issues like a bleeding stomach ulceration. A chest X-ray can be completed concurrently with an abdominal X-ray. In addition, portable X-ray gear may be employed if an individual is physically unable make their way to a clinic or medical center’s X-ray division.
How an Abdominal X-Ray is Performed
An abdominal X-ray is carried out by a radiologist or radiology tech. The X-ray images are interpreted by a radiologist. Some other physicians, like ER doctors, could also review abdominal X-rays to detect for common disorders, like an obstructed bowel.
You may have to remove all or most of your garments. You'll be provided with a gown to wear at the time of the procedure. Moreover, a lead vest may be put over your lower pelvic region to protect it from the X-ray.
After the X-ray machine’s scanner is placed a few inches above your abdomen, you'll be expected to hold your breath while the X-ray images are collected. You should lie really still so the films come out clear.
Oftentimes, dual images are taken: one when you're lying down, called “supine” position, and another one while you're standing (vertical view). The vertical view can help to discover a blockage of the bowel or a hole (perforation) in the abdomen or bowel that is leaking out air. If for some reason you are unable to stand up, the X-ray may be taken as you lie on your right side with your arm above your head.
An abdominal X-ray takes approximately five to ten minutes. In several clinics and medical centers, X-ray images can be projected immediately on a computer display (digital X-Rays).
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Reference:
Pagana KD, Pagana TJ (2006). "Mosby’s Manual of Diagnostic and Laboratory Tests."( 3). St. Louis; Mosby.
Abdominal X-Ray Explained
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